RENOWNED
HOLLYWOOD
ACTING COACH
Brad Heller
"My guide is for
aspiring actors
who want to stay
informed, inspired,
and succeed"
1. INTRODUCTION to ACTING
Conquering Hollywood's film and TV industry is tough but thrilling. Knowing the hurdles and how to overcome them is your shortcut to success. It's all about navigating smarter in this challenging but exciting journey.
The first step is to gain some understanding of what acting actually is. Have you ever played cops and robbers or made up stories with friends? That's like the starting line for acting! To shine on stage, tell the stories that make the audience laugh or cry along with you, you just would need to tweak those skills with the help of acting techniques and mentors.
2. SELF-TRAINING vs.PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
While self-training can be a starting point, professional acting classes offer a more comprehensive and immersive learning experience. They provide structured guidance, practical exercises, opportunity to identify and work on your weaknesses and strengths, network and learn from experienced professionals, and much more, accelerating your growth and development in the craft.
3. HOW TO CHOOSE ACTING SCHOOL, TECHNIQUE, and MENTOR
Choosing the right acting school is like selecting the perfect stage for your performance. It sets the scene for your growth, providing the right environment, resources, techniques, and mentors who will guide you through the twists and turns of the craft, helping you discover your strengths and navigate the world of acting with clarity and confidence. Use the guideline below to evaluate the acting school, technique, and mentor.
- Acting School
- Where is the school located? Generally, attending a school in or near a major entertainment hub can be beneficial. Cities like Los Angeles, New York, or London are known for their thriving entertainment industries and may provide more networking and career opportunities.
- How long has the school been around? Usually, a longer-established school may have a more established reputation, experienced faculty, and a track record of producing successful actors, indicating stability and credibility in the industry. Check for:
- reviews and testimonials;
- students' acting success;
- articles about the school;
- social media presence, etc.;
- Acting Technique
- What acting technique does the school use? Generally, a school that follows popular techniques or is founded by an industry expert is a safer choice. You might need to try different methods, explore what clicks best with you, and what helps you dive deep into a character. Ask yourself:
- Does this technique resonate with me?
- Does it fit my preferences, goals , and learning style? For example, there is a 'Method' acting technique, and many students who come to me says that this technique is not fun and sometimes even traumatic to learn.
- Is this technique a combination of multiple techniques? A school that incorporates a variety of techniques, including both well-known and less mainstream approaches, can provide a more comprehensive education.
- Mentors
- What education/training does acting mentors have? How much acting experience do they have?
- What is their teaching style?
- What do students say about their mentors?
We answered these questions for The Heller Approach Acting Studio. Check out these answers — they're your key to finding a top-notch acting school.
4. FROM TRAINING to AUDITIONING
For aspiring actors starting out, invest in at least 6 months of training before diving into auditions. Think of it as prepping for a major show—aim to impress casting directors right from the start. Nailing that first impression could lead to future roles, even if the current one isn't a perfect fit. Additionally, remember that acting is built on muscle memory, like playing the violin, and we must train our muscles before performing in front of experienced critics and discerning audiences.
Additionally, before you audition, it's crucial for beginners to pinpoint their casting type. Understanding your unique blend of traits naturally aligns you with certain roles while excluding others. Whether it's the leading figure, best friend, villain, or quirky character, your casting type is how others perceive you, laying the groundwork for landing roles promptly.
5. BUILDING ACTING PORTFOLIO
After about 6 months of training, actors can start preparing a comprehensive professional package:headshots, resume, and demo reel that is often needed for auditions, casting calls, and representation.
Headshots
Headshots are essential for new actors, forming their first industry impression. It is vital to maintain accurate depiction of your look and personality in the headshots to be noticed by casting directors. I highly advise allocating a sufficient budget for it, ensuring that you invest in quality without sacrificing on costs.
Resume and Demo Reel
The resume will state your professional experience, skills, and relevant details such as whether you are a member of actors' union, for example. Demo Reel is a visual resume (small clips of your work) and a promotional tool to demonstrate the individual's skills, versatility, and range of performances.
How can you get that acting experience?!
When diving into the world of acting gigs, think of it like stepping into the baby pool before the big leagues. Start by testing the waters with commercials, student films shot at your local institutions, and low budget independent films – they're easier to land, less fiercely competitive, and perfect for gaining professional practice without the intense pressure. Remember, in this field, rejection is common, so building resilience is key. Another approach is collaborating with classmates to craft your own short film. Starting small is an excellent strategy to kick off your journey in the industry while building and maintaining connections for future opportunities.
6. REPRESENTATION
On average, actors typically spend at least a year gaining a foundational understanding of acting techniques, honing performance skills, building a portfolio, and acquiring industry knowledge before seeking representation. When you start looking for an agent and/or manager, you might also need to prepare a cover letter outlining your reasons for seeking agent and/or manger and what you bring to the table in terms of talent and potential. This thorough preparation significantly increases the chances of gaining suitable representation in the competitive entertainment industry.
The Difference Between an Agent and a Manager
Agents focus on securing work/auditions, negotiating contracts, and advocating for actors within the industry. They typically earn a percentage of an actor's earnings from the projects they secure. Managers offer advice on branding, career choices, and long-term strategies. Managers often involve themselves in an actor's personal and professional development, working closely on their career holistically.
Finding an agent or manager can be approached through various avenues:
Referrals: Recommendations from fellow actors, instructors, or industry professionals who've had positive experiences.
Networking: Attending industry events, workshops, or showcases to connect with potential representatives.
Online Databases: Utilizing platforms like IMDbPro, Backstage, Actors Access, or Casting Networks to research and find agents or managers seeking new talent.
Submissions: Some agencies accept submissions through their websites or via traditional mail.
I hope these tips help you to start off your career with a bang! Let us know in the comments on our YouTube channel how you like the guide and if you have any future questions. Stay tuned for more helpful tips.
Talk to You Soon,
Brad Heller
If you are interested in taking our acting classes or have more questions about our school, technique, etc., please fill out the form below.
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